I finally did it! I took my first solo trip this month. Yes, I’ve traveled alone before, but not like this. I was either visiting a friend or going to work. This trip was different, something special and I am so happy I did. With only one real solo trip in the books, I’m definitely not a world traveler or expert. However, I learned some things about myself and the whole “solo travel” world that may help you book your first solo trip in 2019 or make plans for another one.
- “Me Time”: This may go without saying but, solo travel is just that; traveling solo, i.e. alone. Some people have difficulties being by themselves and feel a constant need for company. If you are someone like that, I would recommend taking small steps to enjoying your own company before embarking on a trip. Take yourself on a date, go to the restaurant whose menu you’ve been eyeing for months now. By understanding the importance of “Me Time” and putting time aside to celebrate yourself and figuring out what you love to do, you’ll be one step closer to actually booking the trip where the only company you have is yourself!
2. Research: This is probably the most important. Research, research, research. Making a list of where you want to visit, places to stay, ticket prices and things to do is necessary. You’ll be able to narrow down possible destinations and make the most of your time there. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or you’re going on a 2 week vacation. Planning and proper research is definitely key.
3. Location: Finding a place to call my home away from home is always a daunting task. When traveling I search for places that are clean, centrally located and generally safe. Of course, depending on where I’m visiting more things are added to that list, but those three are great starting points. When solo traveling a major part of the trip is deciding on your accommodation. It’s very important to really research your surroundings, ease of accessibility to and from and nearby activities. You are by yourself in a foreign place, being aware of your surroundings and choosing the right place to lay your head at night or the day (you are in complete control of your schedule, remember) is Solo Travel 101.
4. Funds: The saying “Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems” is a lie. When jetting off alone, you need all your coins. Solo travel really opens your eyes to how much things actually cost and to be able to take a trip alone is a privilege within itself. This is probably my least favorite of solo travelling; there’s no one to split any bills with. Yes, it’s really all you for the accommodation and transportation and we all know just how expensive those two can become. Anticipate a bit more than you think you’ll need and remember to travel with cash and credit/debit cards.
5. Effective Communication: While your solo trip may be about spending time with yourself, it’s prevalent to still be accessible to the world around you and back home with your family and friends. While on my trip to Treasure Cay earlier this month, I spoke to my family everyday, just giving them updates on my days and how the trip was going. I was also able to engage with my followers on Instagram posting highlights of my Abaconian adventure. Having a reliable telecommunication network, minutes and data are necessities for your next solo adventure.
Do you think you got what it takes to make a solo trip? It may seem scary but it’s absolutely liberating and exciting. Have you ever traveled alone, what are some of your best tips?
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